Rock classics /// Dire Straits “Dire Straits”

Musical Britain of the 70-s was flourishing with the diversity of a lot of music genres which were appearing at that time. Styles were evolving and appearing from those that had appeared before and given some solid ground to the development of psychedelic rock, progressive rock, punk rock, new wave and post punk. The end of the decade was mostly marked by the agression and anti-authoritarianism of punk movements, music and clothes which reflected in the moods of the young around the UK. However, while punkers’ agression and anger were loud, there was a band who managed to be no less sarcastic and poisonous but in a quieter manner. They were Dire Straits.

Dire Straits released their debut self-titled album in 1978 and it was the record that made quite a noise on the UK music scene. Its simple, easy to remember, catchy tunes, based on melodious, skillful guitars, create a very special atmosphere of this record – relaxing, mysterious and yet a bit sinister. Shifts from whispers to sharp shouts, from quiet, subtle melodies to swinging, fast ones create gentle music waves which easily carry away. The album’s particular quality which makes it especially stand out amongst other Dire Straits’ albums is its minimalism. But that’s just what this album needs. Creating this fragile, delicate spirit by music, Dire Straits highlight the lyrics – clever, witty, poisonous, wise and thus present a paradoxical mixture of moods when angry lyrics don’t necessarily demand heavy, ripping riffs and delicate music doesn’t need sloppy verses to accompany it. In order to be heard one doesn’t necessarily need to shout – whisper can also be very well heard.

In their debut album Dire Straits showed the atmosphere of music England of the 70-s but in a subtle and quiet manner. Nevertheless, the record was the true spirit of their time and still remain an ageless diamond in classic rock collections.

I only know the popular Dire Straits songs, but I like them. This one is great. As you said, it’s so subtle, and that’s what I like about it. When I first heard it, it reminded me so much of Fleetwood Mac. In fact, if you take out the vocals, I’d be convinced it WAS Fleetwood Mac!